Kaizer Chiefs at a Crossroads: Should They Keep Midfielder Dan Mbule?

Kaizer Chiefs are facing a crucial decision regarding the future of midfielder Dan Mbule, whose place at the club has been uncertain amid a disappointing season.

Despite plans to move on from several underperforming players, including Mbule, club legend Doctor Kumalo has urged Chiefs to reconsider and retain the midfielder.

This article explores the debate around Mbule’s future, the club’s squad challenges, and wider transfer news impacting South African football.

The 2024-25 campaign was a mixed bag for Kaizer Chiefs.

The club ended a decade-long trophy drought by winning the Nedbank Cup with a 2-1 victory over rivals Orlando Pirates.

However, their league performance was underwhelming, finishing ninth in the Premier Soccer League and missing out on top-eight qualification for the MTN8 tournament.

Following this lackluster league showing, Chiefs are expected to offload several players.

Midfielder George Madu is reportedly not being offered a contract renewal, striker Tashri Morris is likely to be loaned out, and goalkeeper Fiaken Dwari is exploring options for more playing time elsewhere.

One player whose future remains unclear is attacking midfielder Dan Mbule.

Although he still has a year left on his contract, Mbule’s loan spell at Richard’s Bay was disappointing, with only three substitute appearances during the season.

The club had initially hoped the loan would provide him with valuable game time to develop and return stronger.

Despite these struggles, Doctor Kumalo, a revered figure in South African football and a club legend, has publicly urged Chiefs to keep Mbule.

Kumalo argues that Mbule’s lack of game time at Chiefs was the main reason for his poor form and that the loan spell was intended to help him gain experience.

He believes Mbule could still be a useful asset for the team.

“It will be good for Dan to go back to Chiefs because, remember, at Chiefs he was not getting game time, and the reason why loan players are loaned out is for them to get game time so that when they come back, they can say at least they gained game time,” Kumalo told Soccer Zone.

He added, “The unfortunate part is that if Richard’s Bay doesn’t want him, then he has to go back to Kaiser Chiefs.

From where I am sitting, with my experience and what I saw from Dan, he can come in handy.”

Kumalo also emphasized the importance of squad depth as Chiefs prepare for the upcoming season.

Their Nedbank Cup victory earned them qualification for the CAF Confederation Cup, which will require a strong and flexible squad.

“Players like Dan will give coach Nazrredin Nabi the flexibility to rotate the team when injuries or fatigue become an issue,” Kumalo said.

Elsewhere, South African football is witnessing other notable developments.

Midfielder Somluli has returned to Mamelodi Sundowns after a loan spell at Sekhukhune United was cut short due to off-field issues.

Somluli made 17 appearances and scored twice during his loan but struggled to maintain consistency.

His agent, Mike Makab, revealed that Sundowns have until the end of May to exercise an option to extend Somluli’s contract.

If they decline, Somluli will become a free agent, and Makab indicated the player’s talent remains undeniable despite his challenges.

“Sundowns have until the end of May to exercise the option.

If they don’t, then Somluli is a free agent.

We will look at various possibilities for him,” Makab told Gagasi FM.

Makab also expressed confidence in Somluli’s ability to improve and make a positive impact moving forward.

“He is a talented player.

Yes, he has his problems, but I’m convinced he will put his best forward,” Makab said.

There have been rumors linking Somluli to Kaizer Chiefs, raising questions about whether the club might revive interest in the midfielder to strengthen their squad.

Meanwhile, Mamelodi Sundowns are preparing for a crucial CAF Champions League final second leg against Egypt’s Pyramids FC.

The first leg ended in a 1-1 draw, setting up an intense showdown at Cairo’s 30 June Stadium.

Former Sundowns midfielder Benedict Vilakazi offered tactical advice to coach Manqoba Mngqithi, suggesting a midfield shake-up to improve creativity and chances of victory.

“If the coach wants to win the CAF final, it’s very easy.

Take out Arthur Sales for the next game, put in Musa Timber and Lucas Riera, and keep Themba Zwane.

Have three midfielders playing behind Zwane,” Vilakazi told TimesLive.

Returning to Kaizer Chiefs, the club’s off-season decisions will be critical.

The debate over Dan Mbule’s future highlights the challenges Chiefs face in balancing player development, squad depth, and performance expectations.

For supporters, the hope is that Chiefs will make wise choices that strengthen the team and build on their recent cup success.

Retaining players like Mbule could provide valuable options, but only if the club commits to nurturing their potential.

In summary, Kaizer Chiefs’ big decision on whether to keep Dan Mbule encapsulates broader squad management issues after a turbulent season.

With several players set to leave and new challenges on the horizon, the club must carefully plan its next steps to compete on multiple fronts.

Fans are encouraged to share their opinions and stay tuned for further updates as the transfer window unfolds.